New Delhi: Tensions are rising between the United States and India as Stephen Miller, a top aide to US President Donald Trump, launched one of the administration’s sharpest criticisms yet of New Delhi — accusing India of undermining US interests by importing Russian oil, imposing high tariffs on American goods, and “cheating” the US immigration system.
Speaking on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures”, Miller said it was “astonishing” that India is now nearly on par with China in purchasing Russian crude — a move he claims is helping finance Russia’s war in Ukraine.
“What President Trump has said very clearly is that it’s not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing oil from Russia,” Miller stated.
“People will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil.”
“Tremendous Relationship, But…”
Despite the harsh rhetoric, Miller also acknowledged the long-standing diplomatic relationship between the US and India, and between Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“President Trump wants a tremendous relationship and has always had a tremendous relationship with India and the Prime Minister,” he said.
“But we need to get real about dealing with the financing of this war. All options are on the table — diplomatic, financial, or otherwise — to bring peace.”
Miller’s remarks represent one of the strongest public rebukes of India by the Trump administration — signaling a possible shift in US policy as Washington sharpens its focus on isolating Russia.
India Stands Firm
Indian government sources, however, said New Delhi has no plans to halt Russian oil imports, despite pressure from Washington. Both state-owned and private refiners continue to purchase crude based on commercial factors, including pricing and availability. No official instructions have been issued to reduce or stop Russian imports, sources told Bloomberg.
At a rally in Uttar Pradesh over the weekend, Prime Minister Modi reinforced India’s commitment to economic self-reliance, hinting at a broader rejection of foreign coercion.
“The world economy is surrounded by uncertainty and instability,” he said.
“From now on, our only standard should be this: we will buy what is made by the sweat and hard work of Indians.”
Trade Tensions Simmer
The escalating row comes just days after the Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports to the US — a move seen as part of Washington’s broader pressure campaign. Trump has also threatened additional economic actions if India doesn’t reconsider its ties with Moscow.
India has emerged as one of Trump’s key targets in his attempt to isolate Russian President Vladimir Putin, as efforts to end the war in Ukraine remain stalled. Last week, Trump lashed out at India for continuing to engage with Russia and participating in BRICS, saying:
“They can take their dead economies down together.”
This marks a dramatic departure from previous US strategies, which largely tolerated India’s historic defence and energy ties with Moscow while strengthening Indo-US ties as a counterbalance to China in the Indo-Pacific region.
Strategic Autonomy Unshaken
India has repeatedly emphasized its stance of strategic autonomy, with the External Affairs Ministry affirming that its foreign relations are guided by national interest, not third-party expectations.
“Our bilateral relationships with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country,” the ministry said recently.
Despite Washington’s displeasure, India appears determined to protect its energy security and maintain economic stability, even as the geopolitical chessboard gets increasingly complicated.
